A Guide To Precious Gemstones

Despite diamonds being the most popular gemstone in the jewellery industry, the demand for many other precious and semi-precious gemstones has gained traction in recent years. One reason consumers are opting for alternative gemstones is because each carries unique qualities and symbolism. Throughout history gems have garnered special meaning in cultures all over the world. At Taylor & Co we are proud to be a UK stockist of Chatham lab grown gemstones. For over 80 years Chatham has been recognised as the world’s leader in lab grown gemstones. Their premium quality gemstones are chemically, optically and physically identical to their mined ancestors.  In this blog post we will be discussing which properties each gemstone carries so you can choose a stone that is meaningful to you or your loved one.

 

Alexandrite

 

Alexandrite is the chameleon of gemstones, it has the unique ability to transform from a bluish teal in daylight to a reddish purple in the evening. It is a stone that represents willingness for change and adventure as well as good luck and fortune. This distinct gem is also a June birthstone and the anniversary stone for the 55th year of marriage. Shop our range of Alexandrite products here.

Aqua Blue Spinel

 

The colour of the Caribbean Sea, Aqua Blue Spinel’s make a eye catching alternative to Aquamarines. They are a resilient gemstone and are hard enough to be worn every day. The blue spinel is all about peace, calm and tranquillity. Like the natural flow of the oceanic waves this beautiful gemstone encourages the wearer to ride the waves of life and drop all resistance. It is the birthstone of September.

Blue Sapphire

Blue sapphires have gained popularity over the past few decades as it is the stone in the engagement ring worn by both Princess Diana and Kate Middleton. This gemstone represents truth, faithfulness, and honesty which is why it is a popular choice for engagement rings, it can also be the “something blue” on your wedding day. It is the birthstone of September and the 5th and 45th anniversary gem.

Emerald

 

Emerald is a very regal gemstone and is known as “The Jewel of Kings”. Style icons such as Elizabeth Taylor and Jackie Kennedy were fans of the gem. Emerald represents, happiness, growth, true love and new beginnings. It is the May birthstone and the 20th and 35th anniversary gem. Here at Taylor & Co we stock Chatham lab grown emeralds that were invented over 75 years ago, you can shop the range here.

Opal

 

Opals have a magical quality to them as the colour is ever changing. The opal gem represents hope, purity, optimism and creativity. It is the birthstone of October and the 14th anniversary gem. You can shop our range of Opal products here.

Ruby

The fiery red Ruby gemstone represents passion, love, wealth and power. The hardness of the gem makes it a great option for an engagement ring as it can be worn every day. It is the birthstone of July and the 15th and 40th anniversary gem. You can explore our range of Ruby pieces here.